LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WAVE) – January can be hard on people’s mental health. The holidays have come and gone, and summer feels like it’s years away.
These feelings happen to so many that the third Monday in January is known as the saddest day of the year. It’s been referred to as “Blue Monday.”
The term was first introduced by a UK travel company as part of a marketing ploy, but doctors believe there is some truth behind why people feel down this time of year. The third Monday of January has become known as Blue Monday. It marks the time of the year when it’s cold out, people are feeling the financial burden from the holidays, and New Year’s resolutions are falling by the wayside.
While many dismiss the term itself, doctors say the cold weather, combined with the lack of sunlight, can impact your mental health. That’s why they say it’s important to be aware of your feelings and to lean on your support systems.
“Knowing who your support people are in your life, whether it’s family, friends, or colleagues, and then being open about how you’re feeling if you are struggling more than normal,” Norton Behavioral Medicine Ellen Buddeke said. “And then also just knowing what works for you, because it’s different for everybody. So, some people might find that getting their nails done is helpful, or some people might find that keeping a journal is helpful. It all just depends on the person.”
Doctors say if your symptoms linger for more than a few weeks or if family and friends are noticing changes in your behavior, it may be time to get professional help.
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